The future of the FetchTV video-on-demand service was cast into question today when parent company IP Vision revealed it has entered administration.

IP Vision said it has begun to seek a buyer for both the SmartBox set-top box tech and the FetchTV streaming business. A sale "represents the best means of maximising value for the company’s creditors and stakeholders", it said.

The company appointed two joint administrators just before Christmas 2010. They are already talking to potential buyers, an IP Vision statement said.

Depending on the outcome of the talks, said to be at an "advanced" stage, up to 20 jobs may go.

IP Vision's set-top boxes are sold by the likes of Tesco, Currys and PC World, some under the Technika brand. They provide Freeview HD DVR functionality and access to both the FetchTV VoD store and catch-up services, such as BBC iPlayer. FetchTV is also available through an app on Panasonic smart TVs. ®